30,000 tons of buried garbage: Croats to export it abroad

Croatia plans to export hazardous waste from Gospić to foreign countries Croatian authorities have announced their intention to remove approximately 30,000 tons of hazardous waste from the illegal dumpsite near Gospić and transport it abroad, according to statements made by Vice Prime Minister Branko Bačić during a televised address on August 14, 2026. The decision comes amid growing public concern over environmental contamination and health risks linked to the accumulation of toxic materials in the area. The government has stated that it is actively working on the remediation of the illegal waste site, with efforts focused on three main objectives: continuous monitoring of water quality, public disclosure of results, and prompt removal of waste from Gospić followed by site restoration. The Ministry of Spatial Planning, Construction, and State Property, along with the Environmental Fund, has already initiated activities aimed at removing the hazardous waste. Approximately 70 companies across Europe were contacted to assess their ability to handle the task. Bačić emphasized that the government does not intend to wait until August 25, when the renewed tender for waste cleanup would conclude. He noted that if no acceptable bids are received, the government will proceed with the inclusion of around 4,500 tons of surface waste and 650 tons of waste stored in large containers. A market survey is currently underway, after which final bids will be requested. One key criterion for selecting a contractor will be the deadline for waste removal, he explained. Due to the lack of suitable disposal facilities within Croatia, the government intends to send the waste to another country where a company offering the most comprehensive solution will be selected. This approach aims to ensure that the hazardous materials are handled safely and responsibly, avoiding further risk to local communities and ecosystems. The issue of illegally dumped waste has been a growing concern in Croatia, particularly following reports from the Zagreb Faculty of Geotechnics, which revealed that nearly 37,000 tons of waste in Gospić, located in the Lika region, has contaminated soil and groundwater, posing serious threats to both the environment and human health. These findings were published last week, highlighting the urgency of addressing the problem. In addition to the environmental concerns, the case involves ongoing criminal investigations. At least 17 individuals are suspected of involvement, with the primary suspects being the couple Josip and Monika Šincek. The legal proceedings are still active, underscoring the severity of the situation and the potential legal consequences for those responsible. Premier Andrej Plenković has also commented on the matter, stating that the government is preparing amendments to the Criminal Code that will include more severe penalties for environmentally harmful actions. This legislative move reflects the broader political commitment to addressing environmental violations and protecting public health. Public awareness and pressure have played a crucial role in prompting these measures. Residents of Gospić and nearby areas have expressed deep concern over the long-term effects of the waste accumulation, leading to increased scrutiny from both national and international bodies. The upcoming parliamentary committee meeting on environmental protection and nature conservation will further examine the impact of the waste on drinking water quality, extending its reach to the islands of Pag and Rab. As the government moves forward with its plan to export the hazardous waste, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with safety standards and minimizing environmental harm. The process will likely involve extensive coordination with foreign entities, regulatory oversight, and continued monitoring of the affected regions to assess the effectiveness of the proposed solutions. The outcome of this initiative could set a precedent for how such issues are managed in the future, especially in regions facing similar challenges.